Bridges

Highway bridges form major links in the global highway networks. The structural condition, performance and durability of highway bridges are important to the society, environment and economy of this and future generations. The engineering students and professionals must work together in integrating their roles and responsibilities in bridge design, construction, inspection, maintenance and management to meet the expectations of the communities. Highway and transportation agencies are adopting innovative methods and technologies in design and construction, and using systematic preventive maintenance, bridge management systems and asset management principles to balance demands, conserve resources and protect the environment, while assuring a high level of safety, resiliency and sustainability in highway bridges and related structures.

This keynote presentation discusses the general concepts of sustainable and resilient bridges, what the U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is doing to promote sustainability and mobility, and what other organizations are doing to make a positive impact on sustainability and resiliency in bridge design, construction and maintenance, and what challenges and opportunities are there for the young and experienced engineers.